Green Coffee May Be Beneficial for Women with PCOS

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal condition that affects millions of women worldwide.¹ With symptoms ranging from irregular cycles and infertility to unwanted hair growth and acne, PCOS often comes hand in hand with insulin resistance and elevated androgen levels, like testosterone. While many women turn to conventional treatments, there's growing interest in plant-based alternatives. Green coffee, known for its high chlorogenic acid content and low caffeine, is one such contender. The current study sheds new light on the potential benefits of green coffee for women with PCOS.

The Study

In this double-blind randomized clinical trial, 34 women diagnosed with PCOS were divided into two groups. Over six weeks, one group received a daily 400 mg capsule of green coffee extract, while the other received a placebo. Importantly, both capsules were made to look and feel identical, ensuring participants wouldn't know which one they were taking.

Researchers tracked various markers before and after the intervention, including free testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, androstenedione, blood lipids, blood sugar, insulin levels, and body measurements.

The Results

At the end of the six-week period, the group taking green coffee showed a significant reduction in free testosterone levels. This is a promising outcome, given the role of excess testosterone in many PCOS symptoms.

Additionally, triglyceride and total cholesterol levels also decreased in the green coffee group, suggesting benefits for both hormone and heart health.

However, no major changes were observed in body weight, insulin resistance, or other androgens like dihydrotestosterone and androstenedione. This indicates that while green coffee may not significantly affect body measurements or insulin markers in the short term, it still plays a meaningful role in balancing key metabolic and hormonal factors.

What Does this Mean?

This study provides encouraging evidence that green coffee may offer real support for women with PCOS, especially when it comes to reducing testosterone and improving lipid profiles. While it did not result in weight loss or changes in insulin resistance, green coffee could still be a natural addition to a broader wellness plan that includes diet, movement, and medical guidance. It's also a sign that targeting hormones through plant-based strategies is not only possible but practical.

Other plant-based foods like spearmint, flaxseed, and licorice root have also shown promise in supporting hormonal balance and may be worth exploring alongside green coffee.